The actor's son, Michael Attenborough told the BBC that his father died Sunday.

Attenborough won an Academy Award for best director for his brilliant film "Gandhi" in 1982. But that signature achievement was only one of many highlights of a distinguished career.

Attenborough was one of the most familiar faces on the British arts scene, appearing in a many major Hollywood films and also directing a series of movies. He was also known for his extensive work as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and other humanitarian causes.